Global Major Cities Guide

Attractions and activities suitable for families, including kid-friendly events and destinations.

Overview: Edinburgh Zoo is one of the city’s most popular family attractions, home to over 1,000 animals, including the UK’s only giant pandas and a famous penguin parade.
Costs:
- Adults: £22.95
- Children (3-15 years): £13.95
- Under 3s: Free
- Family tickets (2 adults + 2 children): £67.50
- Discounts available for online bookings.
Booking: Tickets can be booked online via the official website (www.edinburghzoo.org.uk) to save money and avoid queues.
Accessibility: The zoo is wheelchair accessible, with mobility scooters available for hire. Some areas are hilly, so plan accordingly.
Local Tips:
- Arrive early to catch the penguin parade (subject to animal welfare conditions).
- Bring a packed lunch or enjoy the on-site cafes.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the zoo is spread over a large area.

Overview: A fun, interactive museum filled with optical illusions, puzzles, and a rooftop camera obscura offering panoramic views of Edinburgh.
Costs:
- Adults: £19.95
- Children (5-15 years): £15.95
- Under 5s: Free
- Family tickets (2 adults + 2 children): £59.95
Booking: Advance booking is recommended via their website (www.camera-obscura.co.uk).
Accessibility: The building is historic, so accessibility is limited. There is no lift to the rooftop, but lower floors are wheelchair accessible.
Local Tips:
- Visit on a clear day for the best rooftop views.
- Allow 1.5–2 hours to explore all the exhibits.
- Great for kids aged 5+ who enjoy interactive activities.

Overview: A science and nature attraction that takes visitors on a journey through the history of Earth, from the Big Bang to modern ecosystems. It features immersive exhibits, a 4D cinema, and a planetarium.
Costs:
- Adults: £18.50
- Children (3-15 years): £11.50
- Under 3s: Free
- Family tickets (2 adults + 2 children): £54.00
Booking: Tickets can be purchased online (www.dynamicearth.co.uk) for discounts and to secure a time slot.
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible, with lifts and accessible toilets. Sensory backpacks are available for children with additional needs.
Local Tips:
- Check the schedule for planetarium shows and book in advance.
- Combine your visit with a walk up nearby Arthur’s Seat for stunning views of the city.

Overview: A beautiful public park in the heart of Edinburgh, perfect for a family picnic or a break from sightseeing. Nearby, Princes Street offers a mix of high-street shops and department stores like Jenners (a historic shopping destination).
Costs: Free to enter the gardens. Shopping costs vary.
Booking: No booking required for the gardens. Shops are open daily, typically from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (later on Thursdays).
Accessibility: The gardens have paved paths suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Shops are generally accessible, but check individual stores for details.
Local Tips:
- Visit during the summer for floral displays or in winter for the Christmas Market and ice skating.
- Look out for the Scott Monument, which you can climb for a small fee (£8 for adults, £6 for children).

Overview: The Royal Mile is a historic street stretching from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It’s lined with shops selling Scottish souvenirs, tartan, and local crafts.
Costs: Free to explore. Souvenir prices vary (e.g., tartan scarves from £10, whisky miniatures from £5).
Booking: No booking required.
Accessibility: The cobblestone streets can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Many shops are wheelchair accessible.
Local Tips:
- Look for family-friendly street performers during the summer and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
- Stop by the Museum of Childhood (free entry) for a nostalgic look at toys and games from the past.

Overview: A small urban farm where children can meet animals like goats, pigs, and chickens. It’s a great way to experience a slice of rural life in the city.
Costs: Free entry, but donations are encouraged.
Booking: No booking required.
Accessibility: Fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Local Tips:
- Check their website for seasonal events like petting sessions or workshops.
- Bring hand sanitizer for after animal interactions.

Overview: A historic theatre offering a variety of performances, including musicals, concerts, and family-friendly shows like Disney productions.
Costs: Ticket prices vary depending on the show, typically starting at £20 per person.
Booking: Book tickets online via the official website (www.atgtickets.com) or at the box office.
Accessibility: Wheelchair spaces and hearing assistance are available. Contact the venue in advance for specific needs.
Local Tips:
- Check the schedule for matinee performances, which are often more suitable for families with young children.
- Arrive early to enjoy the theatre’s historic architecture.

Overview: Ocean Terminal is a shopping and entertainment complex that houses the Royal Yacht Britannia, a former royal residence now open to the public.
Costs:
- Royal Yacht Britannia:
  - Adults: £18.00
  - Children (5-17 years): £9.00
  - Under 5s: Free
  - Family tickets (2 adults + 3 children): £49.00
Booking: Tickets for the Royal Yacht Britannia can be booked online (www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk).
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible, with lifts and ramps throughout the yacht and shopping centre.
Local Tips:
- Combine your visit with shopping or a meal at one of the family-friendly restaurants in Ocean Terminal.
- Kids will enjoy the audio guide tailored for younger visitors.

Overview: The world’s largest arts festival, featuring thousands of performances, including many family-friendly shows and street performances.
Costs: Prices vary by show, with many free or pay-what-you-can performances.
Booking: Tickets can be booked online via the Fringe website (www.edfringe.com) or at box offices around the city.
Accessibility: Most venues are accessible, but check individual listings for details.
Local Tips:
- Plan your schedule in advance as the festival can be overwhelming.
- Look for the “Family Fringe” section in the program for kid-friendly options.

Weather: Edinburgh’s weather can be unpredictable. Bring layers, waterproofs, and comfortable shoes.
Transport: The city is walkable, but buses and trams are family-friendly and affordable. A day ticket costs £5.50 for adults and £2.75 for children.
Food: Many attractions have cafes, but you can also find family-friendly restaurants like The Elephant House or Vittoria on the Bridge.

With this guide, your family is sure to have a memorable time exploring Edinburgh’s shopping and entertainment options!

Edinburgh